Extra-special hiking trails

Germany is a hiking wonderland. To make sure you don't lose track of the many regions, you need beacons to show you the way. Hiking in Germany is so much fun. (Although less so in heavy rain.) This category comprises 13 extra-special trails dotted across Germany.

The 285 kilometre long-distance hiking path from Pforzheim to Basel is one of Germany's top hiking routes. We have the chance to appreciate the region's landscape and cuisine from the peaks of the Black Forest.

The Uckermärker Landrunde Trail is a 167 kilometre circular route in the north of Brandenburg. The Uckermark region is one of Germany's scenic gems, with forests, lakes and unspoiled natural surroundings.

No other hiking path in Europe connects so many nature trails. The Saar-Hunsrück is the European champion of the single trail. The paths are often so narrow that hikers need to walk in single file – as if they were in the jungle. It is the perfect 410 kilometre hike.

The Rothaarsteig Trail really is a hike for all the senses: your ears hear the whispers of nature. Your eyes delight in the forests' green splendour. Your nose sniffs the scent of wood and your mouth tastes the regional delicacies.

The Rhine has been personified as a mythical god, Rhenus Pater (lovingly nicknamed "Father Rhine" by the Germans), for centuries. The river, castle ruins and rock formations have inspired generations of painters and poets to create romantic works.

In 2014, the Heidschnuckenweg trail through Lüneburg Heath was voted the most beautiful hiking trail in Germany by readers of Wandermagazin – a great honour for this route through northern Germany's thrilling landscape.

We hike like witches: through the Mines of Rammelsberg, the Old Town of Goslar and the Upper Harz Water Regale. The Harz Witches' Trail is an insanely varied 97 kilometre route through Harz National Park. Off we go on our broomsticks to the Brocken mountain…

At 660 kilometres, the Goldsteig Trail is the longest certified hiking trail in Germany. The trail to the north through the Bavarian Forest National Park is an athletic challenge, the trail to the south is more relaxed.